Speed calls on Bellamy

Published: 05 Aug 2011 - 13:30:16

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Wales manager Gary Speed has included Manchester City striker Craig Bellamy in his 25-man squad to face Australia in Cardiff on Wednesday.

Bellamy spent last season on loan at hometown club Cardiff City but is set to start this term without first-team football as he is yet to agree a similar deal for the forthcoming campaign after a move to Celtic fell through.

Tottenham winger Gareth Bale could make a first appearance since October having missed the Carling Nations Cup campaign and the defeat to England through injury.

When asked if he had any concerns over Bellamy's fitness, Speed said: "I would imagine Craig will be champing at the bit. He has been training but he hasn't had many games so hopefully that will be the case.

"We will see how he goes. If he is able to get through the 90 minutes, which I am sure he would like, then great. If he can't, we will make a change.

"I would like his future to be sorted for his sake because I know how passionate he is about his football.

"The quicker he gets settled then the better for everyone. I know him and I know how he works and he just wants to play football."